Curtain ready to go up on Ellesmere poppy concert

The curtain is almost ready to rise on this year’s poppy concert in Ellesmere on the eve of Remembrance Sunday.

The popular event, featuring local entertainers, has been a key feature of the Royal British Legion’s annual poppy appeal for more than 40 years.

It takes place at Ellesmere Comrades’ Club on Saturday evening (November 7) starting at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £7.50.

This year’s line-up includes the return of the award-winning Porthywaen Silver Band with a mix of patriotic favourites, marches and film themes in the first half of the show.

Also back by popular demand are a singing quartet made up of students and ex-students from Ellesmere College: Jasper, Tabatha, Mini and Ellie.

Audience members will be able to join in a sing-song when Shantoosie Tootie take to the stage.

This versatile combo features Becky Cooper on cornet, trumpet and vocals, with singer Trixi Field on keyboard. Their wide-ranging repertoire includes jazz, folk and blues.

During the concert, a group of students from Lakelands Academy will be reading a selection of war-time poems and stories.

Legion branch president Ian Williams said: “Last year’s concert was a sell-out, raising more than £1,200 and tickets for this year are going fast.

“So often people are left disappointed when they find there are none left. You can pay at the door, but, to be sure, please buy in advance from Ellesmere Rotary bookshop, Ismay’s Fashions, or call me direct on 07799 778575.”

On the morning after the concert, the Ellesmere and district Legion branch is inviting all members of the community to join the traditional parade to the town’s war memorial in the grounds of St Mary’s parish church.

The parade will assemble in the Cross Street car park at 10.30am. Wreaths will be laid at the memorial before two minutes’ silence at 11am, followed by a civic service of remembrance inside the church.

Branch chairman Bob McBride said: “The poppy appeal always generates a very generous response from the people of Ellesmere and we’d very much like to see as many people as possible on Remembrance Sunday.

“Everyone is welcome to join us, and enjoy a cup of tea afterwards at the town hall.”